A concussion can feel deceptively unconcerning, even if you’re an athlete in North Vancouver or Langley. You may feel fine while resting, then notice a headache when exercising, dizziness when moving your head, or difficulty concentrating at work or school. 

This is why concussion management is not just about waiting for symptoms to disappear. 

Why Concussion Management May Require Various Therapies

Concussion presentations vary. One person may experience headaches and neck stiffness, while another has dizziness, exercise intolerance, or difficulty managing cognitive activities. Some people experience ongoing post-concussion symptoms that impact work, school, exercise, and life. 

That’s why concussion rehabilitation in North Vancouver should be individualized. Depending on symptoms and functional limitations, more than one rehab discipline may be required.

Physiotherapy for Movement and Exercise Tolerance

A licensed physiotherapist may assess relevant physical factors and develop an individualized rehabilitation plan. Concussion physiotherapy for North Vancouver clients may address movement, balance, neck mobility, musculoskeletal symptoms, exercise tolerance, and functional limitations. 

Depending on the individual’s symptoms and the services available at the location, physiotherapy may also address vestibular or balance-related concerns. The aim is to determine which factors affect activity tolerance. 

Active Rehab and Kinesiology

Active rehabilitation and kinesiology may support the gradual rebuilding of capacity, and include:

  • Aerobic activity
  • Strengthening
  • Conditioning
  • Movement tolerance
  • Functional exercise

Progress may involve working towards walking, household activities, work demands, gymming, or sport-related activities. 

A graded return to activity should reflect symptoms and tolerance and adhere to clinical guidance. 

Supporting Musculoskeletal Symptoms

A concussion can occur alongside injuries from a collision, fall or car accident. Neck stiffness, shoulder tension, and muscle soreness may require additional care. 

Registered massage therapy may support associated muscle tension and soreness. It won’t treat the concussion itself. Similarly, a chiropractor may address relevant musculoskeletal complaints where appropriate. 

Returning Safely to Sport and Daily Life

Returning to sport after concussion should follow a staged process. Don’t jump directly from rest to competition. Daily activities, school, work, screens, and exercise should be introduced progressively. 

Returning to sport must become increasingly demanding and should be medically cleared before you progress to activities that involve a risk of head impact. 

There isn’t a single concussion recovery timeline. Progress is based on the individual’s presentation and response to activity. 

How Movéo’s Multi-Therapy Approach Fits Together

At Movéo, concussion management may involve:

  • Physiotherapy to assess symptoms.
  • Active rehab to rebuild capacity. 
  • Athletic therapy where available.
  • Registered massage therapy for associated musculoskeletal concerns.

 

Movéo supports clients in North Vancouver and Walnut Grove, Langley.

 

FAQs

Should I completely rest after a concussion until I feel normal?

No, current guidance recommends 24 to 48 hours of relative rest followed by gradual activity.

When can I return to sport after a concussion?

Return should happen gradually and staged, with medical clearance before high-risk activities involving potential head impact. 

Do I need several different therapies?

Not necessarily. Concussion management should be individualized according to symptoms, goals, and clinical assessment. 

Can physiotherapy help with concussion rehabilitation?

Potentially. Depending on the presentation, it may address exercise tolerance, balance, neck-related symptoms, and other physical factors. 

Where can I get concussion rehabilitation support?

Movéo has clinics in North Vancouver and Walnut Grove, Langley. 

Start Your Concussion Rehab Journey Today

You can’t rush your concussion rehab journey. It requires a multidisciplinary approach and gradual return to activity. 

For concussion rehabilitation and return-to-activity support, contact Movéo to discuss which service may be appropriate for your needs. Call the North Vancouver clinic at 604-984-8731 or the Walnut Grove, Langley clinic at 604-371-4771, or book online.